**Valerie Bertinelli Pays Tribute to Betty White in New Podcast**
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In a heartfelt reflection, Valerie Bertinelli has shared that the memory of her late co-star Betty White continues to resonate powerfully, even more than two years after her passing. The actress, known for her role on the sitcom *Hot in Cleveland*, is revisiting the cherished series through her latest venture, a podcast titled *Still Hot in Cleveland*.
At 66, Bertinelli conveys the joy she experienced while working alongside White, who passed away at the age of 99 in December 2021. In an exclusive interview, she expressed that the fond memories of their time together bring her great happiness. “There’s never been anything but joy when I think of everything *Hot in Cleveland*,” she reflected. “We had so much fun, and I always knew it was a unique experience.”
Bertinelli reminisced about the vibrant atmosphere on set, where she shared laughter and camaraderie with co-stars Jane Leeves and Wendie Malick, as well as the writers and crew. “Every morning, I would wake up thinking, ‘I get to go to work, I get to hang with Betty, I get to hang with Jane and Wendy,'” she said, recalling the deep friendships forged during the show’s production. Her words convey a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with such talented individuals.
Despite the joy associated with these memories, Bertinelli acknowledges that they come with a tinge of sadness, knowing White is no longer present. “There’s the bittersweetness of not being able to enjoy this with Betty, but she’s so present all the time,” she noted. The actress believes White’s vibrant spirit and “huge aura” continue to influence and inspire those who were part of her life.
*Hot in Cleveland* centred around three best friends who find themselves unexpectedly relocating to the titular city after a chaotic flight to Paris. The trio – portrayed by Bertinelli, Leeves, and Malick – ultimately decide to kickstart a new chapter together, aided by the quick-witted caretaker of their home, played by White. The show aired on TV Land and quickly became a beloved staple among audiences, winning both critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
To delve deeper into the memories tied to the series, Bertinelli has launched her new podcast, co-hosted by Todd Milliner, the show’s former executive producer. *Still Hot in Cleveland* revisits the sitcom season by season and features conversations with former cast members, writers, and behind-the-scenes staff. This retrospective not only celebrates the show’s success but serves as a platform for the cast to reconnect and bask in the joyful nostalgia of their time together.
Bertinelli has structured the podcast to connect with fans in a more intimate way, allowing members of her new fan community, Valerie’s Place, to access episodes first before they are released to the public. This strategy aims to create a shared space for celebration and reminiscence, enabling fans and former colleagues alike to relive the joy that *Hot in Cleveland* brought into their lives.
As Bertinelli embarks on this new project, she highlights that the podcast intends to “just enjoy being around that joy again.” With each episode, listeners will have the opportunity to explore the anecdotes and experiences that made the sitcom a beloved series, even as they lift up the memory of its iconic star, Betty White.
As the entertainment world continues to mourn the loss of such a remarkable figure, Bertinelli’s tribute serves as a reminder of the powerful legacies left behind by those we have loved. The podcast aims not only to entertain but also to honour the connections and laughter that have endured beyond White’s presence, keeping her spirit alive for both cast members and fans.